By: Jamie Smith | Staff Writer
Every spring, swarms of people from all over the U.S. flock to the desert for one of the largest pop music festivals in the world: Coachella. This year, headliner Justin Bieber has sparked lots of conversation about nostalgia for a simpler time, specifically 2016, leaving many with the question, Will 2026 be the new 2016?
Weekend One Coachella Headliners: Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber and Karol G | Teen Vogue
This conversation about a 2016 comeback is largely driven by the 10-year trend cycle, with millennials and older Gen Z, who were teenagers or young adults in 2016, missing their youth. The spark of this trend, taking us back to a pre-pandemic era, is based around the idea of a “simpler” internet culture; an escape from the overarching seriousness that has since struck headlines for years.
The vibes of 2016 are bringing hope for a break from all of the tragedy and seriousness of political divide, war, job instability and economic uncertainty.
Not only that, but with the seriousness of growing up, becoming adults, starting families and working in stressful environments, the light-hearted culture of youth will always feel nostalgic. The year 2016, specifically, is commonly remembered as a year of collective joy, creativity and fewer worries.
This revamp has brought attention back to many celebrities who were popular during this time, including Justin Bieber, Kylie Jenner and Zara Larsson. These celebrities, honing in on the joy and carefree energy of 2016, have brought back bold colors, dramatic eyeliner, glitter and a swag reminiscent of our country’s youth.
Kylie Jenner at Coachella Weekend Two | Instagram
I think we can all hope that the joy and carefree energy of 2016 will return this year. Sharing kindness, compassion, and gratitude are ways we can all help feel more connected to our community, just as we did in 2016.
